Westmeath teenagers are being called upon to help create a fairer and more just society by signing up to become Young Social Innovators. “Don’t stand by and inherit the society this generation has created. Become actively involved in the issues facing your community and influence the shape of the society that you will ultimately lead.” This was the challenge to Westmeath’s young people from Sr Stanislaus Kennedy, chairperson, Young Social Innovators, Ireland’s largest citizenship programme for 15 to 18 year olds, when she announced details of the 2010 programme. The closing date for entries to the programme is Friday September 18 and an estimated 8,000 young people from over 400 schools and educational centres across the country are expected to participate.
Participants in the project-based programme explore the social issues facing them, their community and society as a whole, identifying potential solutions which they also implement as far as possible. YSI expect to see many of today’s pressing social issues addressed by this year’s participants.
As part of the Young Social Innovators programme young people will be invited to speak on their chosen social issue and the action they are taking at the “Speak Out Fora” – a series of regional events that take place annually in the New Year. They will also be in contention for the title of “Young Social Innovators of the Year 2010”, which will be announced next May. Schools, youth services, Youthreach and Diversion projects interested in participating can find full details and application forms at www.youngsocialinnovators.ie or by calling (01 ) 6458030.
